Quick Info
Main species: Walleye, smallmouth bass, wipers, catfish, largemouth bass. Best seasons: Spring and fall for most species. License: Colorado fishing license required. Best feature: Trophy wipers - some of the biggest in Colorado.
Lake Pueblo ranks among Colorado's best warm-water fisheries. The 4,600-acre reservoir supports excellent populations of walleye, bass, wipers (hybrid striped bass), and catfish. The wipers in particular draw anglers from across the state - Lake Pueblo regularly produces fish over 10 pounds.
Target Species
Wipers (Hybrid Striped Bass): The signature fish of Lake Pueblo. These aggressive fighters average 3-5 pounds with trophy fish exceeding 15 pounds. They feed actively on shad and hit hard. Best in spring and fall when they school near the surface chasing baitfish.
Walleye: Excellent walleye population with fish commonly reaching 4-6 pounds. Fish deep structure near the dam in summer, shallower points in spring and fall. Night fishing can be productive.
Smallmouth Bass: Rocky shorelines and points hold good numbers of smallmouths. Average fish are 1-3 pounds with larger fish possible. Best in spring during the spawn and fall.
Largemouth Bass: Found in shallower areas with vegetation. Not as prominent as smallmouths but decent fishing in the right spots.
Catfish: Channel catfish are abundant and provide consistent action, especially for families. Fish with cut bait or stinkbait on the bottom.
Techniques
For wipers: Trolling with deep-diving crankbaits covers water efficiently. When you find schools, switch to casting swimbaits or topwater in early morning. Watch for surface feeding activity.
For walleye: Jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers work well bounced along rocky structure. Trolling crankbaits along the dam face is productive in summer.
For bass: Standard bass tactics - soft plastics, crankbaits, topwater around rocky points and structure. Drop-shot rigs produce in deeper water during hot months.
Best Spots
The Dam: Deep water near the dam holds walleye year-round and wipers during summer. Boat access only for best fishing.
Rock Canyon: Good shore access with rocky structure for bass and walleye.
Northern Points: Rocky points along the north shore produce bass and wipers.
Arkansas River Inlet: Where the river enters the lake can be good after runoff for various species.
Access and Facilities
Bank fishing: Multiple access points around the lake allow shore fishing. Some areas require hiking from parking areas.
Boat ramps: Several ramps provide access for all boat types. Marinas offer boat rentals, fuel, and supplies.
Guides: Local guides offer trips targeting wipers and walleye. Worth considering if you're new to the lake.
Regulations
Colorado fishing license required. Check current regulations for bag limits and size restrictions - they can change seasonally. Walleye have slot limits to protect spawning fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to fish Lake Pueblo?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are best for most species. Summer is good for deep walleye and catfish.
Can I fish from shore?
Yes, multiple bank fishing areas exist. A boat opens up more water but isn't required.
Where can I buy bait?
The marinas sell bait, tackle, and licenses. Stock up before heading to remote areas of the lake.
Are there size limits?
Yes, check current Colorado Parks & Wildlife regulations. Walleye have slot limits and wipers have size minimums.